Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry PhD/MRes
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-10-01 | - |
Program Overview
Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry PhD/MRes
Overview
The University of Nottingham offers a bespoke research degree in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, and Biochemistry, allowing students to choose their own area of interest to research under the title of their choosing.
Research Areas
Our Microbiology, Molecular Biology, and Biochemistry grouping is made up of the following available PhD and MRes courses:
- Fungal Biology
- Molecular Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biosciences
- Biomedical Sciences
Research Overview
Our supervisors in the school are at the forefront of research in their fields, utilizing industry-standard facilities, cutting-edge equipment, and guidance to advance the area of life sciences that interests you.
Course Content
PhD or MRes?
PhD programmes allow you to research a topic that interests you over the span of 3 to 4 years. You will be required to submit a thesis on your work at the end of your research period and take part in a viva voce examination.
Masters by Research (MRes) programmes allow you to undertake a substantial amount of independent research while gaining 20 credits of transferable skills training over the span of 12 months.
Defining Your Research Area
If you have a particular research area you are interested in, you should start by emailing a relevant supervisor and talking through your interests with them.
Entry Requirements
All candidates are considered on an individual basis, and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2025 entry.
Home / UK Students
- British Honours degree at least 2:1 or equivalent.
- Applicants currently studying Masters in the UK will be accepted with a minimum average of 60% (Merit) in taught elements, if they have a 2:1 or equivalent at undergraduate level.
EU / International Students
- Undergraduate degree of at least 2:1 or equivalent.
- Applicants currently studying Masters in the UK will be accepted with a minimum average of 60% (Merit) in taught elements, if they have a 2:1 or equivalent at undergraduate level.
- International and EU equivalents: We accept a wide range of qualifications from all over the world.
- IELTS: 6.5 (no less than 6.0 in any element) as a minimum, except for all Virology programs, which requires IELTS 7.0 (no less than 6.5 in any element) as a minimum.
Fees
PhD
- Home / UK: £5,006
- International: £24,300 for low-cost, £32,400 for lab-based, £38,400 for high-cost lab-based or £44,000 for exceptional technically intensive or specialized projects with high consumable costs.
MRes
- Home / UK: £5,006
- International: £30,750
Funding
There are many ways to fund your research degree, from scholarships to government loans. Check our guide to find out more about funding your postgraduate degree.
Support
You will have access to a range of support services, including:
- Academic and disability support
- Childcare services
- Counselling service
- Faith support
- Financial support
- Mental health and wellbeing support
- Visa and immigration advice
- Welfare support
Careers
Whether you are considering a career in academia, industry, or haven't yet decided, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Expert staff will work with you to explore PhD career options and apply for vacancies, develop your interview skills, and meet employers.
Research Excellence Framework
The University of Nottingham is ranked 7th in the UK for research power, according to analysis by Times Higher Education. The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is a national assessment of the quality of research in UK higher education institutions.
- 100% of UoA24 (Sport and Exercise Sciences, Leisure and Tourism) and 84% of the UoA5 (Biological Sciences) research submitted was judged to be "world-leading" (4), or "Internationally Excellent" (3) in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 results.
- 90%* of our research is classed as 'world-leading' (4) or 'internationally excellent' (3)
- 100%* of our research is recognised internationally
- 51% of our research is assessed as 'world-leading' (4*) for its impact**
Program Outline
Outline:
- **PhD or MRes?
- PhD programs allow students to research a topic of interest over 3 to 4 years. Students are required to submit a thesis on their work and take part in a viva voce examination.
- Masters by Research (MRes) programs allow students to undertake a substantial amount of independent research while gaining 20 credits of transferable skills training over 12 months. The programs are flexible and allow students to take some additional accredited taught credits.
- Defining my research area
- Students are encouraged to contact a relevant supervisor to discuss their research interests.
- Supervisors are available in the following research areas:
- Fungal Biology
- Molecular Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biosciences
- Biomedical Sciences
Teaching:
- Students have access to industry-standard facilities and cutting-edge equipment.
- Students are guided by supervisors who are at the forefront of research in their fields.
- The school encourages students to present their own original research at national and international scientific meetings.
Careers:
- 83.3% of postgraduates from the School of Life Sciences secured graduate-level employment or further study within 15 months of graduation.
- The average annual salary for these graduates was £31,976.
Other:
- The school has a vibrant and diverse research community.
- Students have opportunities to meet fellow researchers and get involved with student activities and projects.
- The Students' Union represents all students and provides a range of support networks, including groups for international students, black and minority ethnic students, students who identify as women, students with disabilities, and LGBT+ students.
